Environmental Complaint No.	Date of Complaint Received	Description of Environmental Complaints
COM-2014-063	3 December 2014	Noise
COM-2014-065	24 December 2014	Water Quality

1 Introduction

1.1 Basic Project Information

1.1.1 The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Link Road (HKLR) serves to connect the HZMB Main Bridge at the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Boundary and the HZMB Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities (HKBCF) located at the north eastern waters of the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

1.1.2 The HKLR project has been separated into two contracts. They are Contract No. HY/2011/03 Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link Road-Section between Scenic Hill and Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities (hereafter referred to as the Contract) and Contract No. HY/2011/09 Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link Road-Section between HKSAR Boundary and Scenic Hill.

1.1.3 China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd. was awarded by Highways Department (HyD) as the Contractor to undertake the construction works of Contract No. HY/2011/03. The Contract is part of the HKLR Project and HKBCF Project, these projects are considered to be “Designated Projects”, under Schedule 2 of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Ordinance (Cap 499) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Reports (Register No. AEIAR-144/2009 and AEIAR-145/2009) were prepared for the Project. The current Environmental Permit (EP) EP-352/2009/D for HKLR and EP-353/2009/G for HKBCF were issued on 22 December 2014 and 6 August 2013, respectively. These documents are available through the EIA Ordinance Register. The construction phase of Contract was commenced on 17 October 2012. Figure 1.1 shows the project site boundary. The works areas are shown in Appendix O.

1.1.4 The Contract includes the following key aspects:

· New reclamation along the east coast of the approximately 23 hectares.

· Tunnel of Scenic Hill (Tunnel SHT) from Scenic Hill to the new reclamation, of approximately 1km in length with three (3) lanes for the east bound carriageway heading to the HKBCF and four (4) lanes for the westbound carriageway heading to the HZMB Main Bridge.

· An abutment of the viaduct portion of the HKLR at the west portal of Tunnel SHT and associated road works at the west portal of Tunnel SHT.

· An at grade road on the new reclamation along the east coast of the HKIA to connect with the HKBCF, of approximately 1.6 km along dual 3-lane carriageway with hard shoulder for each bound.

· Road links between the HKBCF and the HKIA including new roads and the modification of existing roads at the HKIA, involving viaducts, at grade roads and a Tunnel HAT.

· A highway operation and maintenance area (HMA) located on the new reclamation, south of the Dragonair Headquarters Building, including the construction of buildings, connection roads and other associated facilities.

· Associated civil, structural, building, geotechnical, marine, environmental protection, landscaping, drainage and sewerage, tunnel and highway electrical and mechanical works, together with the installation of street lightings, traffic aids and sign gantries, water mains and fire hydrants, provision of facilities for installation of traffic control and surveillance system (TCSS), reprovisioning works of affected existing facilities, implementation of transplanting, compensatory planting and protection of existing trees, and implementation of an environmental monitoring and audit (EM&A) program.

1.1.5 This is the twenty-seventh Monthly EM&A report for the Contract which summaries the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 to 31 December 2014.

1.1.6 BMT Asia Pacific Limited has been appointed by the Contractor to implement the EM&A programme for the Contract in accordance with the Updated EM&A Manual for HKLR (Version 1.0) for HKLR and will be providing environmental team services to the Contract. ENVIRON Hong Kong Ltd. was employed by HyD as the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) and Environmental Project Office (ENPO) for the Project. The project organization with regard to the environmental works is as follows.

1.2 Project Organisation

1.2.1 The project organization structure and lines of communication with respect to the on-site environmental management structure is shown in Appendix A. The key personnel contact names and numbers are summarized in Table 1.1.

Table 1.1 Contact Information of Key Personnel

Party	Position	Name	Telephone	Fax
Supervising Officer’s Representative (Ove Arup & Partners Hong Kong Limited)	(Chief Resident Engineer, CRE)	Robert Antony Evans	3968 0801	2109 1882
Environmental Project Office / Independent Environmental Checker (Environ Hong Kong Limited)	Environmental Project Office Leader	Y. H. Hui	3465 2888	3465 2899
	Independent Environmental Checker	Antony Wong	3465 2888	3465 2899
Contractor (China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd)	Project Manager	S. Y. Tse	3968 7002	2109 2588
	Environmental Officer	Federick Wong	3968 7117	2109 2588
Environmental Team (BMT Asia Pacific)	Environmental Team Leader	Claudine Lee	2241 9847	2815 3377
24 hours complaint hotline	---	---	5699 5730	---

1.3 Construction Programme

1.3.1 A copy of the Contractor’s construction programme is provided in Appendix B.

1.4 Construction Works Undertaken During the Reporting Month

1.4.1 A summary of the construction activities undertaken during this reporting month is shown in Table 1.2.

Table 1.2 Construction Activities During Reporting Month

Description of Activities	Site Area
Dismantling/trimming of temporary 40mm stone platform for construction of seawall	Portion X
Filling works behind stone platform	Portion X
Temporary stone platform construction	Portion X
Sheet piling	Portion X
Excavation and lateral support works for Scenic Hill Tunnel (Cut & Cover Tunnel)	Portion X
Pipe roofing installation and excavation for Scenic Hill Tunnel	West Portal
Works for diversion of Airport Road and Kwo Lo Wan Road	Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road
Excavation works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel West (Cut & Cover Tunnel)	Airport Road
Pipe Piling Cofferdam Works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel West (Cut & Cover Tunnel)	Airport Road
Pre-grouting and pipe piling works for Airport Express Line access shafts	Airport Express Line
Utilities detection	Kwo Lo Wan/ Airport Road/ Airport Express Line
Excavation and lateral support works at shaft 3 extension north shaft & south shaft	Kwo Lo Wan Road
Access shaft construction for Scenic Hill Tunnel& HKBCF to Airport Tunnel	Portion Y
Utility culvert excavation	Portion Y

2 Air Quality Monitoring

2.1 Monitoring Requirements

2.1.1 In accordance with the Contract Specific EM&A Manual, baseline 1-hour and 24-hour TSP levels at two air quality monitoring stations were established. Impact 1-hour TSP monitoring was conducted for at least three times every 6 days, while impact 24-hour TSP monitoring was carried out for at least once every 6 days. The Action and Limit Level for 1-hr TSP and 24-hr TSP are provided in Table 2.1 and Table 2.2, respectively.

Table 2.1 Action and Limit Levels for 1-hour TSP

Monitoring Station	Action Level, µg/m³	Limit Level, µg/m³
AMS 5 – Ma Wan Chung Village (Tung Chung)	352	500
AMS 6 – Dragonair / CNAC (Group) Building (HKIA)	360	500

Table 2.2 Action and Limit Levels for 24-hour TSP

Monitoring Station	Action Level, µg/m³	Limit Level, µg/m³
AMS 5 – Ma Wan Chung Village (Tung Chung)	164	260
AMS 6 – Dragonair / CNAC (Group) Building (HKIA)	173	260

2.2 Monitoring Equipment

2.2.1 24-hour TSP air quality monitoring was performed using High Volume Sampler (HVS) located at each designated monitoring station. The HVS meets all the requirements of the Contract Specific EM&A Manual. Portable direct reading dust meters were used to carry out the 1-hour TSP monitoring. Brand and model of the equipment is given in Table 2.3.

Table 2.3 Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment	Brand and Model
Portable direct reading dust meter (1-hour TSP)	Sibata Digital Dust Monitor (Model No. LD-3B)
High Volume Sampler (24-hour TSP)	Tisch Environmental Mass Flow Controlled Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) High Volume Air Sampler (Model No. TE-5170)

2.3 Monitoring Locations

2.3.1 Monitoring locations AMS5 and AMS6 were set up at the proposed locations in accordance with Contract Specific EM&A Manual.

2.3.2 Figure 2.1 shows the locations of monitoring stations. Table 2.4 describes the details of the monitoring stations.

Table 2.4 Locations of Impact Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station	Location
AMS5	Ma Wan Chung Village (Tung Chung)
AMS6	Dragonair / CNAC (Group) Building (HKIA)

2.4 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

2.4.1 Table 2.5 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of impact TSP monitoring.

Table 2.5 Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Parameter	Frequency and Duration
1-hour TSP	Three times every 6 days while the highest dust impact was expected
24-hour TSP	Once every 6 days

2.5 Monitoring Methodology

2.5.1 24-hour TSP Monitoring

(a) The HVS was installed in the vicinity of the air sensitive receivers. The following criteria were considered in the installation of the HVS.

(i) A horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the sampler against gusty wind was provided.

(ii) The distance between the HVS and any obstacles, such as buildings, was at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the HVS.

(iii) A minimum of 2 meters separation from walls, parapets and penthouse for rooftop sampler.

(iv) No furnace or incinerator flues nearby.

(v) Airflow around the sampler was unrestricted.

(vi) Permission was obtained to set up the samplers and access to the monitoring stations.

(vii) A secured supply of electricity was obtained to operate the samplers.

(viii) The sampler was located more than 20 meters from any dripline.

(ix) Any wire fence and gate, required to protect the sampler, did not obstruct the monitoring process.

(x) Flow control accuracy was kept within ±2.5% deviation over 24-hour sampling period.

(b) Preparation of Filter Papers

(i) Glass fibre filters, G810 were labelled and sufficient filters that were clean and without pinholes were selected.

(ii) All filters were equilibrated in the conditioning environment for 24 hours before weighing. The conditioning environment temperature was around 25 °C and not variable by more than ±3 °C; the relative humidity (RH) was < 50% and not variable by more than ±5%. A convenient working RH was 40%.

(iii) All filter papers were prepared and analysed by ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd., which is a HOKLAS accredited laboratory and has comprehensive quality assurance and quality control programmes.

(i) The power supply was checked to ensure the HVS works properly.

(ii) The filter holder and the area surrounding the filter were cleaned.

(iii) The filter holder was removed by loosening the four bolts and a new filter, with stamped number upward, on a supporting screen was aligned carefully.

(iv) The filter was properly aligned on the screen so that the gasket formed an airtight seal on the outer edges of the filter.

(v) The swing bolts were fastened to hold the filter holder down to the frame. The pressure applied was sufficient to avoid air leakage at the edges.

(vi) Then the shelter lid was closed and was secured with the aluminium strip.

(vii) The HVS was warmed-up for about 5 minutes to establish run-temperature conditions.

(viii) A new flow rate record sheet was set into the flow recorder.

(ix) On site temperature and atmospheric pressure readings were taken and the flow rate of the HVS was checked and adjusted at around 1.1 m³/min, and complied with the range specified in the Updated EM&A Manual for HKLR (Version 1.0) (i.e. 0.6-1.7 m³/min).

(x) The programmable digital timer was set for a sampling period of 24 hours, and the starting time, weather condition and the filter number were recorded.

(xi) The initial elapsed time was recorded.

(xii) At the end of sampling, on site temperature and atmospheric pressure readings were taken and the final flow rate of the HVS was checked and recorded.

(xiii) The final elapsed time was recorded.

(xiv) The sampled filter was removed carefully and folded in half length so that only surfaces with collected particulate matter were in contact.

(xv) It was then placed in a clean plastic envelope and sealed.

(xvi) All monitoring information was recorded on a standard data sheet.

(xvii) Filters were then sent to ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. For analysis.

(d) Maintenance and Calibration

(i) The HVS and its accessories were maintained in good working condition, such as replacing motor brushes routinely and checking electrical wiring to ensure a continuous power supply.

(ii) 5-point calibration of the HVS was conducted using TE-5025A Calibration Kit prior to the commencement of baseline monitoring. Bi-monthly 5-point calibration of the HVS will be carried out during impact monitoring.

(iii) Calibration certificate of the HVSs are provided in Appendix C.

2.5.2 1-hour TSP Monitoring

(a) Measuring Procedures

The measuring procedures of the 1-hour dust meter were in accordance with the Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual as follows:-

(i) Turn the power on.

(ii) Close the air collecting opening cover.

(iii) Push the “TIME SETTING” switch to [BG].

(iv) Push “START/STOP” switch to perform background measurement for 6 seconds.

(v) Turn the knob at SENSI ADJ position to insert the light scattering plate.

(vi) Leave the equipment for 1 minute upon “SPAN CHECK” is indicated in the display.

(vii) Push “START/STOP” switch to perform automatic sensitivity adjustment. This measurement takes 1 minute.

(viii) Pull out the knob and return it to MEASURE position.

(ix) Push the “TIME SETTING” switch the time set in the display to 3 hours.

(x) Lower down the air collection opening cover.

(xi) Push “START/STOP” switch to start measurement.

(b) Maintenance and Calibration

(i) The 1-hour TSP meter was calibrated at 1-year intervals against a Tisch Environmental Mass Flow Controlled Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) High Volume Air Sampler. Calibration certificates of the Laser Dust Monitors are provided in Appendix C.

2.6 Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month

2.6.1 The schedule for air quality monitoring December 2014 is provided in Appendix D.

2.7 Monitoring Results

2.7.1 The monitoring results for 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP are summarized in Tables 2.6 and 2.7 respectively. Detailed impact air quality monitoring results and relevant graphical plots are presented in Appendix E.

Table 2.6 Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results During the Reporting Month

Monitoring Station	Average (mg/m³)	Range (mg/m³)	Action Level (mg/m³)	Limit Level (mg/m³)
AMS5	140	76 - 276	352	500
AMS6	131	72 - 239	360	500

Table 2.7 Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results During the Reporting Month

Monitoring Station	Average (mg/m³)	Range (mg/m³)	Action Level (mg/m³)	Limit Level (mg/m³)
AMS5	78	56-107	164	260
AMS6	130	40-218	173	260

2.7.2 No Action and Limit Level exceedances of 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP levels were recorded at AMS5 during the reporting month.

2.7.3 No Action and Limit Level exceedances of 1-hour TSP were recorded at AMS6 during the reporting month. An Action Level exceedance of 24-hr TSP level at AMS6 was recorded on 16 December 2014 during the reporting month.

2.7.4 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

2.7.5 The wind data obtained from the on-site weather station during the reporting month is shown in Appendix G.

3 Noise Monitoring

3.1 Monitoring Requirements

3.1.1 In accordance with the Contract Specific EM&A Manual, impact noise monitoring was conducted for at least once per week during the construction phase of the Project. The Action and Limit level of the noise monitoring is provided in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1 Action and Limit Levels for Noise during Construction Period

Monitoring Station	Time Period	Action Level	Limit Level
NMS5 – Ma Wan Chung Village (Ma Wan Chung Resident Association) (Tung Chung)	0700-1900 hours on normal weekdays	When one documented complaint is received	75 dB(A)

3.2 Monitoring Equipment

3.2.1 Noise monitoring was performed using sound level meters at each designated monitoring station. The sound level meters deployed comply with the International Electrotechnical Commission Publications (IEC) 651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1) specifications. Acoustic calibrator was deployed to check the sound level meters at a known sound pressure level. Brand and model of the equipment are given in Table 3.2.

Table 3.2 Noise Monitoring Equipment

Equipment	Brand and Model
Integrated Sound Level Meter	B&K 2238
Acoustic Calibrator	B&K 4231

3.3 Monitoring Locations

3.3.1 Monitoring location NMS5 was set up at the proposed locations in accordance with Contract Specific EM&A Manual.

3.3.2 Figure 2.1 shows the locations of monitoring stations. Table 3.3 describes the details of the monitoring stations.

Table 3.3 Locations of Impact Noise Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station	Location
NMS5	Ma Wan Chung Village (Ma Wan Chung Resident Association) (Tung Chung)

3.4 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

3.4.1 Table 3.4 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of impact noise monitoring.

Table 3.4 Noise Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Parameter	Frequency and Duration
30-mins measurement at each monitoring station between 0700 and 1900 on normal weekdays (Monday to Saturday). L_eq, L₁₀ and L₉₀ would be recorded.	At least once per week

3.5 Monitoring Methodology

3.5.1 Monitoring Procedure

(a) The sound level meter was set on a tripod at a height of 1.2 m above the podium for free-field measurements at NMS5. A correction of +3 dB(A) shall be made to the free field measurements.

(b) The battery condition was checked to ensure the correct functioning of the meter.

(i) frequency weighting: A

(ii) time weighting: Fast

(iii) time measurement: L_{eq(30-minutes)} during non-restricted hours i.e. 07:00 – 1900 on normal weekdays

(e) Prior to and after each noise measurement, the meter was calibrated using the acoustic calibrator for 94.0 dB(A) at 1000 Hz. If the difference in the calibration level before and after measurement was more than 1.0 dB(A), the measurement would be considered invalid and repeat of noise measurement would be required after re-calibration or repair of the equipment.

(f) During the monitoring period, the L_eq, L₁₀ and L₉₀ were recorded. In addition, site conditions and noise sources were recorded on a standard record sheet.

(g) Noise measurement was paused during periods of high intrusive noise (e.g. dog barking, helicopter noise) if possible. Observations were recorded when intrusive noise was unavoidable.

(h) Noise monitoring was cancelled in the presence of fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5m/s, or wind with gusts exceeding 10m/s. The wind speed shall be checked with a portable wind speed meter capable of measuring the wind speed in m/s.

3.5.2 Maintenance and Calibration

(a) The microphone head of the sound level meter was cleaned with soft cloth at regular intervals.

(b) The meter and calibrator were sent to the supplier or HOKLAS laboratory to check and calibrate at yearly intervals.

3.6 Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month

3.6.1 The schedule for construction noise monitoring in December 2014 is provided in Appendix D.

3.7 Monitoring Results

3.7.1 The monitoring results for construction noise are summarized in Table 3.5 and the monitoring results and relevant graphical plots are provided in Appendix E.

Table 3.5 Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results During the Reporting Month

Monitoring Station	Average L_{eq (30 mins)}, dB(A)	Range of L_{eq (30 mins)}, dB(A)	Limit Level L_{eq (30 mins)}, dB(A)
NMS5	60	58 – 62	75

*A correction factor of +3dB(A) from free field to facade measurement was included.

3.7.2 There were no Action and Limit Level exceedances for noise during daytime on normal weekdays of the reporting month.

3.7.3 Major noise sources during the noise monitoring included construction activities of the Contract and nearby traffic noise.

3.7.4 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

4 Water Quality Monitoring

4.1 Monitoring Requirements

4.1.1 Impact water quality monitoring was carried out to ensure that any deterioration of water quality was detected, and that timely action was taken to rectify the situation. For impact water quality monitoring, measurements were taken in accordance with the Contract Specific EM&A Manual. Table 4.1 shows the established Action/Limit Levels for the environmental monitoring works. The ET proposed to amend the Acton Level and Limit Level for turbidity and suspended solid and EPD approved ET’s proposal on 25 March 2013. Therefore, Action Level and Limit Level for the Contract have been changed since 25 March 2013.

4.1.2 The original and revised Action Level and Limit Level for turbidity and suspended solid are shown in Table 4.1.

Table 4.1 Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality

Parameter (unit)	Water Depth	Action Level	Limit Level
Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) (surface, middle and bottom)	Surface and Middle	5.0	4.2 except 5 for Fish Culture Zone
Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) (surface, middle and bottom)	Bottom	4.7	3.6
Turbidity (NTU)	Depth average	27.5 or 120% of upstream control station’s turbidity at the same tide of the same day; The action level has been amended to “27.5 *and* 120% of upstream control station’s turbidity at the same tide of the same day” since 25 March 2013.	47.0 or 130% of turbidity at the upstream control station at the same tide of same day; The limit level has been amended to “47.0 *and* 130% of turbidity at the upstream control station at the same tide of same day” since 25 March 2013.
Suspended Solid (SS) (mg/L)	Depth average	23.5 or 120% of upstream control station’s SS at the same tide of the same day; The action level has been amended to “23.5 *and* 120% of upstream control station’s SS at the same tide of the same day” since 25 March 2013.	34.4 or 130% of SS at the upstream control station at the same tide of same day and 10mg/L for Water Services Department Seawater Intakes; The limit level has been amended to “34.4 *and* 130% of SS at the upstream control station at the same tide of same day and 10mg/L for Water Services Department Seawater Intakes” since 25 March 2013

Notes:

(1) Depth-averaged is calculated by taking the arithmetic means of reading of all three depths.

(2) For DO, non-compliance of the water quality limit occurs when monitoring result is lower that the limit.

(3) For SS & turbidity non-compliance of the water quality limits occur when monitoring result is higher than the limits.

(4) The change to the Action and limit Levels for Water Quality Monitoring for the EM&A works was approved by EPD on 25 March 2013.

4.2 Monitoring Equipment

4.2.1 Table 4.2 summarises the equipment used in the impact water quality monitoring programme.

Table 4.2 Water Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment	Brand and Model
DO and Temperature Meter, Salinity Meter, Turbidimeter and pH Meter	YSI Model 6820 V2-M, 650
Positioning Equipment	DGPS – KODEN : KGP913MkII, KBG3
Water Depth Detector	Layin Associates: SM-5 & SM5A
Water Sampler	Wildlife Supply Company : 5487-10

4.3 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

4.3.1 Table 4.3 summarises the monitoring parameters, frequency and monitoring depths of impact water quality monitoring as required in the Contract Specific EM&A Manual.

Table 4.3 Impact Water Quality Monitoring Parameters and Frequency

Monitoring Stations

Parameter, unit

Frequency

No. of depth

Impact Stations:
IS5, IS(Mf)6, IS7, IS8, IS(Mf)9 & IS10,

Control/Far Field Stations:
CS2 & CS(Mf)5,

Sensitive Receiver Stations:
SR3, SR4, SR5, SR10A & SR10B

· Depth, m

· Temperature, ^oC

· Salinity, ppt

· Dissolved Oxygen (DO), mg/L

· DO Saturation, %

· Turbidity, NTU

· pH

· Suspended Solids (SS), mg/L

Three times per week during mid-ebb and mid-flood tides (within ± 1.75 hour of the predicted time)

(1 m below water surface, mid-depth and 1 m above sea bed, except where the water depth is less than 6 m, in which case the mid-depth station may be omitted. Should the water depth be less than 3 m, only the mid-depth station will be monitored).

4.4 Monitoring Locations

4.4.1 In accordance with the Contract Specific EM&A Manual, thirteen stations (6 Impact Stations, 5 Sensitive Receiver Stations and 2 Control Stations) were designated for impact water quality monitoring. The six Impact Stations (IS) were chosen on the basis of their proximity to the reclamation and thus the greatest potential for water quality impacts, the five Sensitive Receiver Stations (SR) were chosen as they are close to the key sensitive receives and the two Control Stations (CS) were chosen to facilitate comparison of the water quality of the IS stations with less influence by the Project/ ambient water quality conditions.

4.4.2 The locations of these monitoring stations are summarized in Table 4.4 and shown in
Figure 2.1.

Table 4.4 Impact Water Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Stations	Description	Coordinates
Monitoring Stations	Description	Easting	Northing
IS5	Impact Station (Close to HKLR construction site)	811579	817106
IS(Mf)6	Impact Station (Close to HKLR construction site)	812101	817873
IS7	Impact Station (Close to HKBCF construction site)	812244	818777
IS8	Impact Station (Close to HKBCF construction site)	814251	818412
IS(Mf)9	Impact Station (Close to HKBCF construction site)	813273	818850
IS10	Impact Station (Close to HKBCF construction site)	812577	820670
SR3	Sensitive receivers (San Tau SSSI)	810525	816456
SR4	Sensitive receivers (Tai Ho Inlet)	814760	817867
SR5	Sensitive receivers (Artificial Reef In NE Airport)	811489	820455
SR10A	Sensitive receivers (Ma Wan Fish Culture Zone)	823741	823495
SR10B	Sensitive receivers (Ma Wan Fish Culture Zone)	823686	823213
CS2	Control Station (Mid-Ebb)	805849	818780
CS(Mf)5	Control Station (Mid-Flood)	817990	821129

4.5 Monitoring Methodology

4.5.1 Instrumentation

(a) The in-situ water quality parameters including dissolved oxygen, temperature, salinity and turbidity, pH were measured by multi-parameter meters.

4.5.2 Operating/Analytical Procedures

(a) Digital Differential Global Positioning Systems (DGPS) were used to ensure that the correct location was selected prior to sample collection.

(b) Portable, battery-operated echo sounders were used for the determination of water depth at each designated monitoring station.

(c) All in-situ measurements were taken at 3 water depths, 1 m below water surface, mid-depth and 1 m above sea bed, except where the water depth was less than 6 m, in which case the mid-depth station was omitted. Should the water depth be less than 3 m, only the mid-depth station was monitored.

(d) At each measurement/sampling depth, two consecutive in-situ monitoring (DO concentration and saturation, temperature, turbidity, pH, salinity) and water sample for SS. The probes were retrieved out of the water after the first measurement and then re-deployed for the second measurement. Where the difference in the value between the first and second readings of DO or turbidity parameters was more than 25% of the value of the first reading, the reading was discarded and further readings were taken.

(e) Duplicate samples from each independent sampling event were collected for SS measurement. Water samples were collected using the water samplers and the samples were stored in high-density polythene bottles. Water samples collected were well-mixed in the water sampler prior to pre-rinsing and transferring to sample bottles. Sample bottles were pre-rinsed with the same water samples. The sample bottles were then be packed in cool-boxes (cooled at 4^oC without being frozen), and delivered to ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. for the analysis of suspended solids concentrations. The laboratory determination work would be started within 24 hours after collection of the water samples. ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. is a HOKLAS accredited laboratory and has comprehensive quality assurance and quality control programmes.

(f) The analysis method and detection limit for SS is shown in Table 4.5.

Table 4.5 Laboratory Analysis for Suspended Solids

Parameters	Instrumentation	Analytical Method	Detection Limit
Suspended Solid (SS)	Weighting	APHA 2540-D	0.5mg/L

(g) Other relevant data were recorded, including monitoring location / position, time, water depth, tidal stages, weather conditions and any special phenomena or work underway at the construction site in the field log sheet for information.

4.5.3 Maintenance and Calibrations

(a) All in situ monitoring instruments would be calibrated by ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. before use and at 3-monthly intervals throughout all stages of the water quality monitoring programme. The procedures of performance check of sonde and testing results are provided in Appendix C.

4.6 Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month

4.6.1 The schedule for impact water quality monitoring in December 2014 is provided in Appendix D.

4.7 Monitoring Results

4.7.1 Impact water quality monitoring was conducted at all designated monitoring stations during the reporting month. Impact water quality monitoring results and relevant graphical plots are provided in Appendix E.

4.7.2 Number of exceedances recorded during the reporting month at each impact station are summarised in Table 4.6.

Table 4.6 Summary of Water Quality Exceedances

Station	Exceedance Level	DO (S&M)		DO (Bottom)		Turbidity		SS		Total number of exceedances
Station	Exceedance Level	Ebb	Flood	Ebb	Flood	Ebb	Flood	Ebb	Flood	Ebb	Flood
IS5	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
IS5	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
IS(Mf)6	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
IS(Mf)6	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
IS7	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
IS7	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
IS8	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
IS8	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
IS(Mf)9	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
IS(Mf)9	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	5 Dec 2014	--	1	0
IS10	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
IS10	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
SR3	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
SR3	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
SR4	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
SR4	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
SR5	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
SR5	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
SR10A	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
SR10A	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
SR10B	Action Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
SR10B	Limit Level	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	--	0	0
Total	Action	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0**
Total	Limit	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1**

Notes:

S: Surface;

M: Mid-depth;

** The total number of exceedances

4.7.3 One Limit Level exceedance of suspended solid was recorded on 5 December 2014.The construction activities on 5 December 2014 were carried out within silt curtain as recommended in the EIA Report. There were no specific activities recorded during the monitoring period that would cause any significant impacts on the monitoring results. The exceedance of suspended solids was considered to be attributed to other external factors, rather than the contract works. Therefore, the exceedance was considered as non-contract related.

4.7.4 Water quality impact sources during the water quality monitoring were the construction activities of the Contract, nearby construction activities by other parties and nearby operating vessels by other parties.

4.7.5 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

5 Dolphin Monitoring

5.1 Monitoring Requirements

5.1.1 Impact dolphin monitoring is required to be conducted by a qualified dolphin specialist team to evaluate whether there have been any effects on the dolphins.

5.1.2 The Action Level and Limit Level for dolphin monitoring are shown in Table 5.1.

Table 5.1 Action and Limit Levels for Dolphin Monitoring

	North Lantau Social Cluster
	NEL	NWL
Action Level	STG < 4.2 & ANI < 15.5	STG < 6.9 & ANI < 31.3
Limit Level	(STG < 2.4 & ANI < 8.9) and (STG < 3.9 & ANI < 17.9)

Remarks:

1. STG means quarterly encounter rate of number of dolphin sightings.

2. ANI means quarterly encounter rate of total number of dolphins.

3. For North Lantau Social Cluster, AL will be trigger if either NEL or NWL fall below the criteria; LL will be triggered if both NEL and NWL fall below the criteria.

5.1.3 The revised Event and Action Plan for dolphin Monitoring was approved by EPD in 6 May 2013. The revised Event and Action Plan is annexed in Appendix F.

5.2 Monitoring Methodology

Vessel-based Line-transect Survey

5.2.1 According to the requirements of the Updated EM&A Manual for HKLR (Version 1.0), dolphin monitoring programme should cover all transect lines in NEL and NWL survey areas (see Figure 1 of Appendix H) twice per month. The co-ordinates of all transect lines are shown in Table 5.2.

Table 5.2 Co-ordinates of Transect Lines

Line No.		Easting	Northing	Line No.		Easting	Northing
1	Start Point	804671	814577	13	Start Point	816506	819480
1	End Point	804671	831404	13	End Point	816506	824859
2	Start Point	805475	815457	14	Start Point	817537	820220
2	End Point	805477	826654	14	End Point	817537	824613
3	Start Point	806464	819435	15	Start Point	818568	820735
3	End Point	806464	822911	15	End Point	818568	824433
4	Start Point	807518	819771	16	Start Point	819532	821420
4	End Point	807518	829230	16	End Point	819532	824209
5	Start Point	808504	820220	17	Start Point	820451	822125
5	End Point	808504	828602	17	End Point	820451	823671
6	Start Point	809490	820466	18	Start Point	821504	822371
6	End Point	809490	825352	18	End Point	821504	823761
7	Start Point	810499	820690	19	Start Point	822513	823268
7	End Point	810499	824613	19	End Point	822513	824321
8	Start Point	811508	820847	20	Start Point	823477	823402
8	End Point	811508	824254	20	End Point	823477	824613
9	Start Point	812516	820892	21	Start Point	805476	827081
9	End Point	812516	824254	21	End Point	805476	830562
10	Start Point	813525	820872	22	Start Point	806464	824033
10	End Point	813525	824657	22	End Point	806464	829598
11	Start Point	814556	818449	23	Start Point	814559	821739
11	End Point	814556	820992	23	End Point	814559	824768
12	Start Point	815542	818807
12	End Point	815542	824882

5.2.2 The survey team used standard line-transect methods (Buckland et al. 2001) to conduct the systematic vessel surveys, and followed the same technique of data collection that has been adopted over the last 16 years of marine mammal monitoring surveys in Hong Kong developed by HKCRP (see Hung 2012, 2013). For each monitoring vessel survey, a 15-m inboard vessel with an open upper deck (about 4.5 m above water surface) was used to make observations from the flying bridge area.

5.2.3 Two experienced observers (a data recorder and a primary observer) made up the on-effort survey team, and the survey vessel transited different transect lines at a constant speed of 13-15 km per hour. The data recorder searched with unaided eyes and filled out the datasheets, while the primary observer searched for dolphins and porpoises continuously through 7 x 50 Fujinon marine binoculars. Both observers searched the sea ahead of the vessel, between 270^o and 90^o (in relation to the bow, which is defined as 0^o). One to two additional experienced observers were available on the boat to work in shift (i.e. rotate every 30 minutes) in order to minimize fatigue of the survey team members. All observers were experienced in small cetacean survey techniques and identifying local cetacean species.

5.2.4 During on-effort survey periods, the survey team recorded effort data including time, position (latitude and longitude), weather conditions (Beaufort sea state and visibility), and distance travelled in each series (a continuous period of search effort) with the assistance of a handheld GPS (Garmin eTrex Legend).

5.2.5 Data including time, position and vessel speed were also automatically and continuously logged by handheld GPS throughout the entire survey for subsequent review.

5.2.6 When dolphins were sighted, the survey team would end the survey effort, and immediately record the initial sighting distance and angle of the dolphin group from the survey vessel, as well as the sighting time and position. Then the research vessel was diverted from its course to approach the animals for species identification, group size estimation, assessment of group composition, and behavioural observations. The perpendicular distance (PSD) of the dolphin group to the transect line was later calculated from the initial sighting distance and angle.

5.2.7 Survey effort being conducted along the parallel transect lines that were perpendicular to the coastlines (as indicated in Figure 1 of Appendix H) was labeled as “primary” survey effort, while the survey effort conducted along the connecting lines between parallel lines was labeled as “secondary” survey effort. According to HKCRP long-term dolphin monitoring data, encounter rates of Chinese white dolphins deduced from effort and sighting data collected along primary and secondary liens were similar in NEL and NWL survey areas. Therefore, both primary and secondary survey effort were presented as on-effort survey effort in this report.

5.2.8 Encounter rates of Chinese White Dolphins (number of on-effort sightings per 100 km of survey effort and number of dolphins from all on-effort sightings per 100 km of survey effort) were calculated in NEL and NWL survey areas in relation to the amount of survey effort conducted during each month of monitoring survey. Only data collected under Beaufort 3 or below condition would be used for encounter rate analysis. Dolphin encounter rates were calculated using primary survey effort alone, as well as the combined survey effort from both primary and secondary lines.

Photo-identification Work

5.2.9 When a group of Chinese White Dolphins were sighted during the line-transect survey, the survey team would end effort and approach the group slowly from the side and behind to take photographs of them. Every attempt was made to photograph every dolphin in the group, and even photograph both sides of the dolphins, since the colouration and markings on both sides may not be symmetrical.

5.2.10 A professional digital cameras (Canon EOS 7D and 60D models), equipped with long telephoto lenses (100-400 mm zoom), were available on board for researchers to take sharp, close-up photographs of dolphins as they surfaced. The images were shot at the highest available resolution and stored on Compact Flash memory cards for downloading onto a computer.

5.2.11 All digital images taken in the field were first examined, and those containing potentially identifiable individuals were sorted out. These photographs would then be examined in greater detail, and were carefully compared to the existing Chinese White Dolphin photo-identification catalogue maintained by HKCRP since 1995.

5.2.12 Chinese White Dolphins can be identified by their natural markings, such as nicks, cuts, scars and deformities on their dorsal fin and body, and their unique spotting patterns were also used as secondary identifying features (Jefferson 2000).

5.2.13 All photographs of each individual were then compiled and arranged in chronological order, with data including the date and location first identified (initial sighting), re-sightings, associated dolphins, distinctive features, and age classes entered into a computer database. Detailed information on all identified individuals will be further presented as appendix in the quarterly EM&A report.

5.3 Monitoring Results

Vessel-based Line-transect Survey

5.3.1 During the month of December 2014, two sets of systematic line-transect vessel surveys were conducted on 2^nd, 9^th, 15^th and 23^rd to cover all transect lines in NWL and NEL survey areas twice. The survey routes of each survey day are presented in Figures 2 to 5 of Appendix H.

5.3.2 From these surveys, a total of 299.10 km of survey effort was collected, with 100% of the total survey effort being conducted under favourable weather conditions (i.e. Beaufort Sea State 3 or below with good visibility) (Annex I of Appendix H). Among the two areas, 115.70 km and 183.40 km of survey effort were collected from NEL and NWL survey areas respectively. Moreover, the total survey effort conducted on primary lines was 217.18 km, while the effort on secondary lines was 81.92 km.

5.3.3 During the two sets of monitoring surveys in December 2014, a total of three groups of five Chinese White Dolphins were sighted (Annex II of Appendix H). All sightings were made in NWL during the two sets of surveys in December, with no dolphin being sighted at all in NEL. Notably, this is the fifth consecutive month without a dolphin sighting recorded in NEL, and only two on-effort sightings were made thus far in this area in 2014. During December’s surveys, all three sightings were made on primary lines during on-effort search, and none of the dolphin groups was associated with operating fishing vessel.

5.3.4 Distribution of these dolphin sightings made in December 2014 is shown in (Figure 6 of Appendix H). All three sightings were clustered within and adjacent to the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park, while no dolphin was sighted for the rest of North Lantau waters (Figure 6 of Appendix H).

5.3.5 Notably, none of the six sightings was made in the proximity of the HKLR03 and HKBCF reclamation sites, as well as the HKLR09 and TMCLKL alignments (Figure 6 of Appendix H).

5.3.6 During December’s surveys, encounter rates of Chinese White Dolphins deduced from the survey effort and on-effort sighting data made under favourable conditions (Beaufort 3 or below) are shown in Table 5.3 and Table 5.4.

Table 5.3 Individual Survey Event Encounter Rates

		Encounter rate (STG) (no. of on-effort dolphin sightings per 100 km of survey effort)	Encounter rate (ANI) (no. of dolphins from all on-effort sightings per 100 km of survey effort)
		Primary Lines Only	Primary Lines Only
NEL	Set 1: December 2^nd/9^th	0.0	0.0
NEL	Set 2: December 15^th/23^rd	0.0	0.0
NWL	Set 1: December 2^nd/9^th	2.8	5.6
NWL	Set 2: December 15^th/23^rd	1.4	1.4

Remarks:

1. Dolphin Encounter Rates Deduced from the Two Sets of Surveys (Two Surveys in Each Set) in December 2014 in Northeast (NEL) and Northwest Lantau (NWL).

Table 5.4 Monthly Average Encounter Rates

	Encounter rate (STG) (no. of on-effort dolphin sightings per 100 km of survey effort)		Encounter rate (ANI) (no. of dolphins from all on-effort sightings per 100 km of survey effort)
	Primary Lines Only	Both Primary and Secondary Lines	Primary Lines Only	Both Primary and Secondary Lines
Northeast Lantau	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0
Northwest Lantau	2.1	1.6	3.5	2.7

Remarks:

1. Monthly Average Dolphin Encounter Rates (Sightings Per 100 km of Survey Effort) from All Four Surveys Conducted in December 2014 on Primary Lines only as well as Both Primary Lines and Secondary Lines in Northeast (NEL) and Northwest Lantau (NWL).

5.3.7 The average group size of Chinese White Dolphins in December 2014 was 1.67 individuals per group, which was much lower than the ones in previous months of dolphin monitoring. All three dolphin groups were composed of only 1-3 animals during the monitoring period.

Photo-identification Work

5.3.8 Five individual dolphins were sighted five times during December’s surveys. All of them were sighted only once during the monitoring month (Annex III and IV of Appendix H).

5.3.9 None of the five individual dolphins was accompanied with calves during their re-sightings.

Conclusion

5.3.10 During this month of dolphin monitoring, no adverse impact from the activities of this construction project on Chinese White Dolphins was noticeable from general observations.

5.3.11 Due to monthly variation in dolphin occurrence within the study area, it would be more appropriate to draw conclusion on whether any impacts on dolphins have been detected related to the construction activities of this project in the quarterly EM&A report, where comparison on distribution, group size and encounter rates of dolphins between the quarterly impact monitoring period (December 2014 – February 2015) and baseline monitoring period (3-month period) will be made.

5.4 Reference

5.4.1 Buckland, S. T., Anderson, D. R., Burnham, K. P., Laake, J. L., Borchers, D. L., and Thomas, L. 2001. Introduction to distance sampling: estimating abundance of biological populations. Oxford University Press, London.

5.4.2 Hung, S. K. 2012. Monitoring of Marine Mammals in Hong Kong waters: final report (2011-12). An unpublished report submitted to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, 171 pp.

5.4.3 Hung, S. K. 2013. Monitoring of Marine Mammals in Hong Kong waters: final report (2012-13). An unpublished report submitted to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, 168 pp.

5.4.4 Jefferson, T. A. 2000. Population biology of the Indo-Pacific hump-backed dolphin in Hong Kong waters. Wildlife Monographs 144:1-65.

6 Mudflat Monitoring

6.1 Sedimentation Rate Monitoring

Methodology

6.1.1 To avoid disturbance to the mudflat and nuisance to navigation, no fixed marker/monitoring rod was installed at the monitoring stations. A high precision Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) real time location fixing system (or equivalent technology) was used to locate the station in the precision of 1mm, which is reasonable under flat mudflat topography with uneven mudflat surface only at micro level. This method has been used on Agricultural Fisheries and Conservation Department’s (AFCD) project, namely Baseline Ecological Monitoring Programme for the Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site for measurement of seabed levels.

6.1.2 Measurements were taken directly on the mudflat surface. The Real Time Kinematic GNSS (RTK GNSS) surveying technology was used to measure mudflat surface levels and 3D coordinates of a survey point. The RTK GNSS survey was calibrated against a reference station in the field before and after each survey. The reference station is a survey control point established by the Lands Department of the HKSAR Government or traditional land surveying methods using professional surveying instruments such as total station, level and/or geodetic GNSS. The coordinates system was in HK1980 GRID system. For this contract, the reference control station was surveyed and established by traditional land surveying methods using professional surveying instruments such as total station, level and RTK GNSS. The accuracy was down to mm level so that the reference control station has relatively higher accuracy. As the reference control station has higher accuracy, it was set as true evaluation relative to the RTK GNSS measurement. All position and height correction were adjusted and corrected to the reference control station. Reference station survey result and professional land surveying calibration is shown as Table 6.1:

Table 6.1 Reference Station Survey result and GNSS RTK calibration result of Round 1

Reference Station	Easting (m)	Northing (m)	Baseline reference elevation (mPD) (A)	Round 1 Survey (mPD) (B)	Calibration Adjustment (B-A)
T1	811248.660mE	816393.173mN	3.840	3.817	-0.023
T2	810806.297mE	815691.822mN	4.625	4.653	+0.028
T3	810778.098mE	815689.918mN	4.651	4.660	+0.009
T4	810274.783mE	816689.068mN	2.637	2.709	+0.072

6.1.3 The precision of the measured mudflat surface level reading (vertical precision setting) was within 10 mm (standard deviation) after averaging the valid survey records of the XYZ HK1980 GRID coordinates. Each survey record at each station was computed by averaging at least three measurements that are within the above specified precision setting. Both digital data logging and written records were collected in the field. Field data on station fixing and mudflat surface measurement were recorded.

Monitoring Locations

6.1.4 Four monitoring stations were established based on the site conditions for the sedimentation monitoring and are shown in Figure 6.1.

Monitoring Results

6.1.5 The baseline sedimentation rate monitoring was in September 2012 and impact sedimentation rate monitoring was undertaken on 13 December 2014. The mudflat surface levels at the four established monitoring stations and the corresponding XYZ HK1980 GRID coordinates are presented in Table 6.2 and Table 6.3.

Table 6.2 Measured Mudflat Surface Level Results

	Baseline Monitoring (September 2012)			Impact Monitoring (December 2014)
Monitoring Station	Easting (m)	Northing (m)	Surface Level (mPD)	Easting (m)	Northing (m)	Surface Level (mPD)
S1	810291.160	816678.727	0.950	810291.034	816678.685	1.050
S2	810958.272	815831.531	0.864	810958.223	815831.493	0.915
S3	810716.585	815953.308	1.341	810716.537	815953.273	1.469
S4	811221.433	816151.381	0.931	811221.458	816151.337	1.055

Table 6.3 Comparison of measurement

	Comparison of measurement			Remarks and Recommendation
Monitoring Station	Easting (m)	Northing (m)	Surface Level (mPD)	Remarks and Recommendation
S1	-0.126	-0.042	0.100	Level continuously increased
S2	-0.049	-0.038	0.051	Level continuously increased
S3	-0.048	-0.032	0.128	Level continuously increased
S4	0.025	-0.044	0.124	Level continuously increased

6.1.6 This measurement result was generally and relatively higher than the baseline measurement at S1, S2, S3 and S4. The mudflat level is continuously increased.

6.2 Water Quality Monitoring

6.2.1 The mudflat monitoring covered water quality monitoring data. Reference was made to the water quality monitoring data of the representative water quality monitoring station (i.e. SR3) as in the EM&A Manual. The water quality monitoring location (SR3) is shown in Figure 2.1.

6.2.2 Impact water quality monitoring in San Tau (monitoring station SR3) was conducted in December 2014. The monitoring parameters included dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity and suspended solids (SS).

6.2.3 The Impact monitoring results for SR3 were extracted and summarised below:

Table 6.4 Impact Water Quality Monitoring Results (Depth Average)

Date	Mid Ebb Tide			Mid Flood Tide
Date	DO (mg/L)	Turbidity (NTU)	SS (mg/L)	DO (mg/L)	Turbidity (NTU)	SS (mg/L)
01-Dec-14	6.49	3.00	5.95	6.93	8.70	10.80
03-Dec-14	6.67	4.85	6.80	6.80	9.70	11.25
05-Dec-14	6.70	5.80	11.15	7.08	6.10	11.40
08-Dec-14	7.25	4.65	5.20	7.16	4.40	5.40
10-Dec-14	7.43	3.80	4.60	7.40	2.75	3.30
12-Dec-14	7.93	2.05	4.75	7.67	3.10	5.20
15-Dec-14	8.65	1.55	1.60	8.45	3.05	3.90
17-Dec-14	8.46	2.60	2.35	9.29	2.75	3.20
19-Dec-14	8.76	0.70	2.55	8.88	0.50	2.30
22-Dec-14	8.93	1.80	2.10	8.82	1.35	3.75
24-Dec-14	8.63	2.50	2.40	8.60	1.45	2.50
26-Dec-14	8.49	1.25	2.85	8.65	1.60	3.65
29-Dec-14	7.77	1.70	3.75	8.01	1.55	7.70
31-Dec-14	8.18	1.35	2.30	8.44	0.95	3.35
Average	7.88	2.69	4.17	8.01	3.43	5.55

6.3 Mudflat Ecology Monitoring Methodology

Sampling Zone

6.3.1 In order to collect baseline information of mudflats in the study site, the study site was divided into three sampling zones (labeled as TC1, TC2, TC3) in Tung Chung Bay and one zone in San Tau (labeled as ST) (Figure 2.1 of Appendix I). The horizontal length of sampling zones TC1, TC2, TC3 and ST were about 250 m, 300 m, 300 m and 250 m respectively. Survey of horseshoe crabs, seagrass beds and intertidal communities were conducted in every sampling zone. The present survey was conducted in December 2014 (totally 6 sampling days between 6^th and 23^rd December 2014).

Horseshoe Crabs

6.3.2 Active search method was conducted for horseshoe crab monitoring by two experienced surveyors at every sampling zone. During the search period, any accessible and potential area would be investigated for any horseshoe crab individuals within 2-3 hours in low tide period (tidal level below 1.2 m above Chart Datum (C.D.)). Once a horseshoe crab individual was found, the species was identified referencing to Li (2008). The prosomal width, inhabiting substratum and respective GPS coordinate were recorded. A photographic record was taken for future investigation. Any grouping behavior of individuals, if found, was recorded. The horseshoe crab surveys were conducted on 10^th (for TC1 and TC2) and 23^rd (for TC3 and ST) December 2014. The weather was cloudy on both survey days.

Seagrass Beds

6.3.3 Active search method was conducted for seagrass bed monitoring by two experienced surveyors at every sampling zone. During the search period, any accessible and potential area would be investigated for any seagrass beds within 2-3 hours in low tide period. Once seagrass bed was found, the species, estimated area, estimated coverage percentage and respective GPS coordinate were recorded. A photographic record was taken for future investigation. The seagrass beds surveys were conducted on 10^th (for TC1 and TC2) and 23^rd (for TC3 and ST) December 2014.

Intertidal Soft Shore Communities

6.3.4 The intertidal soft shore community surveys were conducted in low tide period on 6^th (for TC1), 7^th (for TC2), 21^st (for TC3) and 22^nd December 2014 (for ST). At each sampling zone, three 100 m horizontal transects were laid at high tidal level (H: 2.0 m above C.D.), mid tidal level (M: 1.5 m above C.D.) and low tidal level (L: 1.0 m above C.D.). Along every horizontal transect, ten random quadrats (0.5 m x 0.5m) were placed.

6.3.5 Inside a quadrat, any visible epifauna were collected and were in-situ identified to the lowest practical taxonomical resolution. Whenever possible a hand core sample (10 cm internal diameter ´ 20 cm depth) of sediments was collected in the quadrat. The core sample was gently washed through a sieve of mesh size 2.0 mm in-situ. Any visible infauna were collected and identified. Finally the top 5 cm surface sediments were dug for visible infauna in the quadrat regardless of hand core sample was taken.

6.3.6 All collected fauna were released after recording except some tiny individuals that are too small to be identified on site. These tiny individuals were taken to laboratory for identification under dissecting microscope.

6.3.7 The taxonomic classification was conducted in accordance to the following references: Polychaetes: Fauchald (1977), Yang and Sun (1988); Arthropods: Dai and Yang (1991), Dong (1991); Mollusks: Chan and Caley (2003), Qi (2004).

Data Analysis

6.3.8 Data collected from direct search and core sampling was pooled in every quadrat for data analysis. Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index (H’) and Pielou’s Species Evenness (J) were calculated for every quadrat using the formulae below,

H’= -Σ ( Ni / N ) ln ( Ni / N ) (Shannon and Weaver, 1963)

J = H’ / ln S, (Pielou, 1966)

where S is the total number of species in the sample, N is the total number of individuals, and Ni is the number of individuals of the i^th species.

6.4 Event and Action Plan for Mudflat Monitoring

6.4.1 In the event of the impact monitoring results indicating that the density or the distribution pattern of intertidal fauna and seagrass is found to be significant different to the baseline condition (taking into account natural fluctuation in the occurrence and distribution pattern such as due to seasonal change), appropriate actions should be taken and additional mitigation measures should be implemented as necessary. Data should then be re-assessed and the need for any further monitoring should be established. The action plan, as given in Table 6.5 should be undertaken within a period of 1 month after a significant difference has been determined.

Table 6.5 Event and Action Plan for Mudflat Monitoring

Event

ET Leader

IEC

Contractor

Density or the distribution pattern of horseshoe crab, seagrass or intertidal soft shore communities recorded in the impact or post-construction monitoring are significantly lower than or different from those recorded in the baseline monitoring.

Review historical data to ensure differences are as a result of natural variation or previously observed seasonal differences;

Identify source(s) of impact;

Inform the IEC, SO and Contractor;

Check monitoring data;

Discuss additional monitoring and any other measures, with the IEC and Contractor.

Discuss monitoring with the ET and the Contractor;

Review proposals for additional monitoring and any other measures submitted by the Contractor and advise the SO accordingly.

Discuss with the IEC additional monitoring requirements and any other measures proposed by the ET;

Make agreement on the measures to be implemented.

Inform the SO and in writing;

Discuss with the ET and the IEC and propose measures to the IEC and the ER;

Implement the agreed measures.

Notes:

ET – Environmental Team

IEC – Independent Environmental Checker

SO – Supervising Officer

6.5 Mudflat Ecology Monitoring Results and Conclusion

Horseshoe Crabs

6.5.1 Table 3.1 and Figure 3.1 of Appendix I shows the records of horseshoe crab survey at every sampling zone. Two individuals of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda was found in TC1 only. Few individuals of Tachypleus tridentatus were found in sampling zones TC3 (3 ind.) and ST (5 ind.). All individuals were found on fine sand or soft mud substrata. Every sight record consisted of single individual that no grouping behaviour was observed.

6.5.2 Table 3.2 of Appendix I summarizes the survey results of horseshoe crab at every sampling zone. For Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda, the search records were 0.5 ind. hr^-1 person^-1 (mean prosomal width: 41.53 mm), in TC1. According to Li (2008), the prosomal width of recorded individuals ranged 32.13－50.92 mm that was about 5.3-8.2 years old. For Tachypleus tridentatus, the search record was 0.8 ind. hr^-1 person^-1 (46.86 mm) and 1.3 ind. hr^-1 person^-1 (64.03 mm) in TC3 and ST respectively. The prosomal width of recorded individuals ranged 37.27－72.40 mm that was about 4.6–8.5 years old.

6.5.3 No marked individual of horseshoe crab was recorded in present survey. Some marked individuals were found in previous surveys conducted in Sep. 2013, Mar. 2014 and Sep. 2014. All of them were released through a conservation programme conducted by Prof. Paul Shin (Department of Biology and Chemistry, The City University of Hong Kong (CityU)). It was a re-introduction trial of artificial bred horseshoe crab juvenile at selected sites. So that the horseshoe crabs population might be restored in the natural habitat. Through a personal conversation with Prof. Shin, about 100 individuals were released in the sampling zone ST on 20 June 2013. All of them were marked with color tape and internal chip detected by specific chip sensor. There should be second round of release between June and September 2014 since new marked individuals were found in the survey of September 2014.

6.5.4 The artificial bred individuals, if found, would be excluded from the results of present monitoring programme in order to reflect the changes of natural population. However, the mark on their prosoma might have been detached during moulting after a certain period of release. The artificially released individuals were no longer distinguishable from the natural population without the specific chip sensor. The survey data collected would possibly cover both natural population and artificially bred individuals.

Population difference among the sampling zones

6.5.5 Figures 3.2 and 3.3 of Appendix I show the changes of number of individuals, mean prosomal width and search record of horseshoe crabs Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda and Tachypleus tridentatus respectively in every sampling zone along the sampling months. In general, higher search records (i.e. number of individuals) of both species were always found in ST followed by TC3. In contrast, much lower search record was found in other sampling zones especially TC2 (2 ind. in Sep. 2013, 1 ind. in Mar., Jun. and Sep. 2014). There was no spatial difference of horseshoe crab size (prosomal width) among the sampling zones.

6.5.6 It was obvious that ST was an important nursery ground for horseshoe crab especially newly hatched individuals due to larger area of suitable substratum (fine sand or soft mud) and less human disturbance (far from urban district). Relatively, TC3 might be functioning as less important nursery ground adjacent to ST due to moderate but fluctuate number of horseshoe crab found. Relatively, other sampling zones were not a suitable nursery ground especially TC2. Possible factors were less area of suitable substratum (especially TC1) and higher human disturbance (TC1 and TC2: close to urban district and easily accessible). In TC2, large daily salinity fluctuation was a possible factor either since it was flushed by two rivers under tidal inundation. The individuals found in TC1, TC2 and TC3 were believed foraging from the ST during high tide while it might return to ST over a certain period of time. It accounted for the variable search records in the sampling zones along the sampling months. For example, few individuals of Tachypleus tridentatus were found in TC1 only between Sep. 2012 and Sep. 2013. However it no longer appeared while few individuals of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda were found after Mar. 2014.

Seasonal variation of horseshoe crab population

6.5.7 Throughout the monitoring period conducted, the search record of horseshoe crab declined obviously during dry season especially December (Figures 3.2 and 3.3 of Appendix I). In present survey (Dec. 2014), 2 individuals of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda and 8 individuals of Tachypleus tridentatus were found only. Furthermore no individual of either two species was found in the previous survey of Dec. 2013. As mentioned, the horseshoe crabs were inactive and burrowed in the sediments during cold weather (<15 ºC). Similar results of low search record in dry season were reported in a previous territory-wide survey of horseshoe crab. For example, the search records in Tung Chung Wan were 0.17 ind. hr^-1 person^-1 and 0 ind. hr^-1 person^-1 in wet season and dry season respectively (details see Li, 2008). After the dry season, the search record increased with the warmer climate.

6.5.8 Between the sampling months Sep. 2012 and Dec. 2013, Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda was a less common species relative to Tachypleus tridentatus. Only 4 individuals were ever recorded in ST in Dec. 2012. This species had ever been believed of very low density in ST hence the encounter rate was very low. In Mar. 2014, it was found in all sampling zones with higher abundance in ST. Based on its average size (mean prosomal width 39.28-49.81 mm), it indicated that breeding and spawning of this species had occurred 3-4 years ago along the coastline of Tung Chun Wan. However, these individuals were still small while their walking trails were inconspicuous. Hence there was no search record in previous sampling months. From Mar. to Sep. 2014, more individuals were recorded due to larger size and higher activity.

6.5.9 For Tachypleus tridentatus, sharp increase of number of individuals was recorded in ST with wet season (from Mar. to Sep. 2013). According to a personal conversation with Prof. Shin (CityU), his monitoring team had recorded similar increase of horseshoe crab population during wet season. It was believed that the suitable ambient temperature increased its conspicuousness. However similar pattern was not recorded during the period of this year. The number of individuals increased in Mar. and Jun. 2014 followed by a rapid decline in Sep. 2014. Apart from natural mortality, migration from nursery soft shore to subtidal habitat was another possible cause. Since the mean prosomal width of Tachypleus tridentatus continued to grow and reached about 50 mm in this year. Most of the individuals might have reached a suitable size strong enough to forage in subtidal habitat.

6.5.10 Figure 3.4 of Appendix I shows the changes of prosomal width of horseshoe crab Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda and Tachypleus tridentatus in ST where was regarded as an important nursery ground. As mentioned above, Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda was rarely found between Sep. 2012 and Dec. 2013 hence the data were lacking. From Mar. to Sep. 2014, the size of major population (50% records between upper and lower quartile) fluctuated between 30-40 mm and 45-60 mm. Such fluctuation should be due to variable encounter rate influenced by weather. For Tachypleus tridentatus, a consistent growing trend was observed for the major population from Dec. 2012 to Dec. 2014 regardless of change of search record. The prosomal width increased from 15-30 mm to 55-70 mm. As mentioned, the large individuals might have reached a suitable size for migrating from the nursery soft shore to subtidal habitat.

Impact of the HKLR project

6.5.11 The present survey was the ninth time of the EM&A programme during the construction period. Based on the results, impact of the HKLR project could not be detected on horseshoe crabs considering the factor of natural, seasonal variation. In case, abnormal phenomenon (e.g. very few numbers of horseshoe crab individuals in warm weather, large number of dead individuals on the shore) is observed, it would be reported as soon as possible.

Seagrass Beds

6.5.12 Table 3.3 of Appendix I show the records of seagrass beds survey at every sampling zone. Three small patches of Zostera japonica were found on sandy substratum nearby the seaward side of mangrove area at tidal level 2.0 m above C.D. (Figure 3.5 of Appendix I). The estimated area ranged 0.3-4.2 m² while the estimated vegetation coverage was 20-40%. The total area and average area of seagrass beds were 4.7 m² and 1.6 m² respectively (Table 3.4 of Appendix I). Another seagrass species Halophila ovalis (Figure 3.5 of Appendix I). was no longer found in present survey but it used to be abundant and extensive in previous surveys.

Temporal variation of seagrass beds

6.5.13 Figure 3.6 of Appendix I shows the changes of estimated total area of seagrass beds in ST along the sampling months. For Zostera japonica, it was not recorded in the 1^st and 2^nd surveys of monitoring programme. Seasonal recruitment of few, small patches (total seagrass area: 10 m²) was found in Mar. 2013 that grew within the large patch of seagrass Halophila ovalis. Then the patch size increased and merged gradually with the warmer climate from Mar. to Jun. 2013 (15 m²). However the patch size decreased sharply and remained similar from Sep. 2013 (4 m²) to Mar. 2014 (3 m²). In Jun. 2014, the patch size increased obviously again (41 m²) with warmer climate. Similar to previous year, the patch size decreased again and remained similar Sep. 2014 (2 m²) to Dec. 2014 (5 m², present survey).

6.5.14 For Halophila ovalis, it was recorded as 3-4 medium to large patches (area 18.9-251.7 m²; vegetation coverage 50-80%) beside the mangrove vegetation at tidal level 2 m above C.D in the Dec. 2013 (first survey). The total seagrass bed area grew steadily from 332.3 m² in Sep. 2012 to 727.4 m² in Dec. 2013. Flowers could be observed in the largest patch during its flowering period in Dec. 2013. In Mar. 2014, 31 small to medium patches were newly recorded (variable area 1-72 m² per patch, vegetation coverage 40-80% per patch) in lower tidal zone between 1.0 and 1.5 m above C.D. The total seagrass area increased further to 1350 m². In Jun. 2014, these small and medium patches grew and extended to each others. These patches were no longer distinguishable and were covering a significant mudflat area of ST. It was generally grouped into 4 large areas (1116 – 2443 m²) of seagrass beds characterized of patchy distribution, variable vegetable coverage (40-80%) and smaller leaves. The total seagrass bed area increased sharply to 7629 m². In Sep. 2014, the total seagrass area declined sharply to 1111 m². There were only 3-4 small to large patches (6-253 m²) at high tidal level and 1 patch at low tidal level (786 m²). Typhoon or strong water current was a possible cause (Fong, 1998). In Sep. 2014, there were two tropical cyclone records in Hong Kong (7^th-8^th Sep.: no cyclone name, maximum signal number 1; 14^th-17^th Sep.: Kalmaegi maximum signal number 8SE) before the seagrass survey dated 21^st Sep. 2014. The strong water current caused by the cyclone, Kalmaegi especially, might have given damage to the seagrass beds. In addition, natural heat stress and grazing force were other possible causes reducing seagrass beds area. Besides, Halophila ovalis could be found in other mud flat area surrounding the single patch. But it was hardly distinguished into patches due to very low coverage (10-20%) and small leaves.

6.5.15 In Dec. 2014 (present survey), all the seagrass patches of Halophila ovalis disappeared in ST. The seagrass bed of Halophila ovalis recorded in December survey was significantly different from the baseline condition. Figure 3.7 of Appendix I shows the difference of the original seagrass beds area nearby the mangrove vegetation at high tidal level between Jun. 2014 and Dec. 2014. Such rapid loss would not be seasonal phenomenon because the seagrass beds at higher tidal level (2.0 m above C.D.) were present and normal in December 2012 and 2013. According to Fong (1998), similar incident had occurred in ST in the past. The original seagrass area had declined significantly during the commencement of the construction and reclamation works for the international airport at Chek Lap Kok in 1992. The seagrass almost disappeared in 1995 and recovered gradually after the completion of reclamation works. Moreover, incident of rapid loss of seagrass area was also recorded in another intertidal mudflat in Lai Chi Wo in 1998 with unknown reason. Hence Halophila ovalis was regarded as a short-lived and r-strategy seagrass that can colonize areas in short period but disappears quickly under unfavourable conditions (Fong, 1998).

Unfavourable conditions to seagrass Halophila ovalis

6.5.16 Typhoon or strong water current was suggested as one unfavourable condition to Halophila ovalis (Fong, 1998). As mentioned above, there were two tropical cyclone records in Hong Kong in Sep. 2014. The strong water current caused by the cyclones might have given damage to the seagrass beds.

6.5.17 Prolonged light deprivation due to turbid water would be another unfavouable condition. Previous studies reported that Halophila ovalis had little tolerance to light deprivation. During experimental darkness, seagrass biomass declined rapidly after 3-6 days and seagrass died completely after 30 days. The rapid death might be due to shortage of available carbohydrate under limited photosynthesis or accumulation of phytotoxic end products of anaerobic respiration (details see Longstaff et al., 1999). Hence the seagrass bed of this species was susceptible to temporary light deprivation events such as flooding river runoff (Longstaff and Dennison, 1999).

6.5.18 In order to investigate any deterioration of water quality (e.g. more turbid) in ST, the water quality measurement results at two closest monitoring stations SR3 and IS5 of the EM&A programme were obtained from the water quality monitoring team. Based on the results from June to December 2014, the overall water quality was in normal fluctuation except there was one exceedance of suspended solids (SS) at both stations in September. On 10^th Sep., 2014, the SS concentrations measured at mid-ebb tide at stations SR3 (27.5 mg/L) and IS5 (34.5 mg/L) exceeded the Action Level (≤23.5 mg/L and 120% of upstream control station’s reading) and Limit Level (≤34.4 mg/L and 130% of upstream control station’s reading) respectively. The turbidity readings at SR3 and IS5 reached 24.8-25.3 NTU and 22.3-22.5 NTU respectively. The temporary turbid water should not be caused by the runoff from upstream rivers. Because there was no rain or slight rain from 1^st to 10^th Sep. 2014 (daily total rainfall at the Hong Kong International Airport: 0-2.1 mm; extracted from the climatological data of Hong Kong Observatory). The effect of upstream runoff on water quality should be neglectable in that period. Moreover the exceedance of water quality was considered unlikely to be related to the contract works of HKLR according to the ‘Notifications of Environmental Quality Limits Exceedances’ provided by the respective environmental team. The respective construction of seawall and stone column works, which possibly caused turbid water, were carried out within silt curtain as recommended in the EIA report. Moreover there was no leakage of turbid water, abnormity or malpractice recorded during water sampling. In general, the exceedance of suspended solids concentration was considered to be attributed to other external factors, rather than the contract works.

6.5.19 Based on the weather condition and water quality results in ST, the co-occurrence of cyclone hit and turbid waters in Sep. 2014 might have combined the adverse effects on Halophila ovalis that leaded to disappearance of this short-lived and r-strategy seagrass species. Fortunately Halophila ovalis was a fast-growing species (Vermaat et al., 1995). Previous studies showed that the seagrass bed could be recovered to the original sizes in 2 months through vegetative propagation after experimental clearance (Supanwanid, 1996). Moreover it was reported to recover rapidly in less than 20 days after dugong herbivory (Nakaoka and Aioi, 1999). As mentioned, the disappeared seagrass in ST in 1995 could recover gradually after the completion of reclamation works for international airport (Fong, 1998). The seagrass beds of Halophila ovalis might recolonize the mudflat of ST through seed reproduction as long as there was no unfavourable condition in the coming months.

Impact of the HKLR project

6.5.20 The present survey was the ninth survey of the EM&A programme during the construction period. Based on the results, there was a complete disappearance of seagrass Halophila ovalis in the sampling zone ST. The combined effects of cyclone hits and turbid water incidence in Sep. 2014 were believed the cause. For the turbid water incidence (i.e. exceedance of SS concentration), there was no evidence indicating correlation between the turbid water and the contract works of HKLR (e.g. construction of seawall, stone column works) as mentioned above. Hence the negative impact of HKLR project on the seagrass was not significant.

6.5.21 As long as there is no unfavourable condition to Halophila ovalis, it is believed that the seagrass beds would recover gradually in ST in the coming months. Because it is a r-strategy seagrass species that can colonize areas in short period (Fong, 1998).

6.5.22 Recently no follow-up action is suggested. In case the disappearance of seagrass beds Halophila ovalis persists until June 2015, some follow-up actions should be taken. For examples, more water quality parameters relevant to the seagrass toxicity (e.g. herbicides and heavy metals) should be included in the water quality monitoring programme. It is to investigate any seagrass toxicity present in the water that is omitted in the original EM&A programme. Moreover, seagrass transplantation may be adopted to fasten the recovery of seagrass beds.

Intertidal Soft Shore Communities

6.5.23 Table 3.5 and Figure 3.8 of Appendix I show the types of substratum along the horizontal transect at every tidal level of every sampling zone. The relative distribution of different substrata was estimated by categorizing the substratum types (Gravels & Boulders / Sands / Soft mud) of the ten random quadrats along the horizontal transect. The distribution of substratum types varied among tidal levels and sampling zones:

· In TC1, the distribution of substratum varied among three tidal levels. At high tidal level, there was higher percentage of ‘Gravels and Boulders’ (50%) followed by ‘Sands’ (30%) and ‘Soft mud’ (20%). At mid tidal level, ‘Gravels and Boulders’ (90%) was the main substratum. At low tidal level, there was higher percentage of ‘Sands’ (50%) followed by ‘Gravels and Boulders’ (30%)’and ‘Soft mud’ (20%).

· In TC2, high percentage of ‘Sands’ (70%) were recorded at all tidal levels. ‘Gravels and Boulders’ (20-30%) was the second abundant at high and mid tidal levels while ‘Soft mud’ (20%) was the second abundant at low tidal level.

· In TC3, the distribution of substratum varied among three tidal levels. High percentages of ‘Sands’ (70%) was recorded at high tidal level followed by ‘Soft mud’ (30%). In contrast, high percentages of ‘Soft mud’ (70%) was recorded at mid tidal level followed by ‘Sands’ (30%). ‘Gravels and Boulders’ was the major substratum type (70%) at low tidal level.

· In ST, ‘Gravels and Boulders’ (100%) was the major substratum at high and mid tidal levels. ‘Soft mud’ (50%) and ‘Sands’ (40%) were mainly recorded at low tidal level.

6.5.24 There was neither consistent vertical nor horizontal zonation pattern of substratum type in all sampling zones. Such heterogeneous variation should be caused by different hydrology (e.g. wave in different direction and intensity) received by the four sampling zones.

6.5.25 Table 3.6 of Appendix I lists the total abundance, density and number of taxon of every phylum in the present survey. A total of 10051 individuals were recorded. Mollusca was significantly the most abundant phylum (total individuals 9813, density 327 ind. m^-2, relative abundance 97.6%). The second abundant phylum was Arthropoda (105 ind., 4 ind. m^-2, 1.0%). The third abundant phylum was Annelida (80 ind., 3 ind. m^-2, 0.8%). Relatively other phyla were very low in abundances (density £1 ind. m^-2, relative abundance £0.3%). Moreover, the most diverse phylum was Mollusca (37 taxa) followed by Arthropoda (11 taxa) and Annelida (10 taxa). There was one taxon recorded only in other phyla. The complete list of collected specimens is shown in Annex III of Appendix I.

6.5.26 Table 3.7 of Appendix I shows the number of individual, relative abundance and density of each phylum in every sampling zone. The total abundance (1528-4072 ind.) varied largely among the four sampling zones although the phyla distributions were similar. In general, Mollusca was the most dominant phylum (no. of individuals: 1455-3999 ind.; relative abundance 95.2-98.2%; density 194-533 ind. m^-2). Other phyla were significantly lower in number of individuals. Arthropoda (12-38 ind.; 10.5-2.5%; 2-5 ind. m^-2) and Annelida (12-32 ind.; 0.5-1.5%; 2-4 ind. m^-2) were the second or third abundant phyla. In ST, Cnidaria (sea anemone) was the forth abundant phylum (12 ind.; 0.6%; 2 ind. m^-2). Relatively, other phyla were low in abundance among the four sampling zones (< 0.5%).

Dominant species in every sampling zone

6.5.27 Table 3.8 of Appendix I lists the abundant species (relative abundance >10%) in every sampling zone. In TC1, gastropod Batillaria multiformis was the most abundant (203 ind. m^-2, relative abundance 73%) at high tidal level (major substrata: ‘Gravels and Boulders’ and ‘Sands’). At mid and low tidal levels (major substrata: ‘Gravels and Boulders’ and ‘Sands’), rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (151-176 ind. m^-2, 39-53%, attached on boulders) and gastropod Monodonta labio (40-76 ind. m^-2, 12-19%) were the first and second abundant taxa. Moreover gastropod Batillaria multiformis was the third abundant (72 ind. m^-2, 18%) at mid tidal levels.

6.5.28 At TC2, gastropods Cerithidea djadjariensis (68 ind. m^-2, 36%), Cerithidea cingulata (26 ind. m^-2, 14%) and rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (43 ind. m^-2, 26%) were common taxa at low-moderate densities (major substratum: ‘Sands’). At mid and low tidal levels (major substrata: ‘Sands’), rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (84-136 ind. m^-2, 51-52%) was the most abundant followed by gastropod Batillaria zonalis (32-39 ind. m^-2, 12-24%) at low-moderate densities. Moreover, gastropod Cerithidea djadjariensis (27 ind. m^-2, 10%) was another common taxon at low-moderate density at mid tidal levels.

6.5.29 At TC3, gastropod Batillaria multiformis (549 ind. m^-2, 66%) was high in density at high tidal level followed by gastropod Cerithidea djadjariensis (180 ind. m^-2, 22%) at moderate density (major substratum: ‘Sands’). At mid tidal level (major substratum: ‘Soft mud’), gastropod Cerithidea djadjariensis (176 ind. m^-2, 54%) was the most abundant at moderate density followed by gastropod Cerithidea cingulata (69 ind. m^-2, 21%). At low tidal level (major substratum: ‘Gravels and Boulders’), rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (208 ind. m^-2, 44%) was the most abundant at moderate density followed by gastropods Monodonta labio (126 ind. m^-2, 27%) and Batillaria multiformis (49 ind. m^-2, 10%) at much lower densities.

6.5.30 At ST, gastropod Batillaria multiformis was most abundant (106 ind. m^-2, 35%) at moderate density at high tidal level (major substratum: ‘Gravels and Boulders’) followed by much less abundant gastropod Monodonta labio (68 ind. m^-2, 23%) and rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (59 ind. m^-2, 20%). At mid tidal level (major substratum: ‘Gravels and Boulders’), rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (145 ind. m^-2, 37%) was the most abundant at moderate density. Other less abundant taxa were gastropods Lunella coronata (66 ind. m^-2, 17%), Monodonta labio (64 ind. m^-2, 16%) and Batillaria multiformis (38 ind. m^-2, 10%) at low densities. At low tidal level (major substrata: ‘Sands’ and ‘Soft mud’), rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (26 ind. m^-2, 31%), gastropods Batillaria zonalis (20 ind. m^-2, 24%) and Lunella coronata (9 ind. m^-2, 11%) were abundant taxa at low densities relative to that at high and mid tidal levels.

6.5.31 There was no consistent zonation pattern of species distribution observed across all sampling zones and tidal levels. The species distribution should be affected by the type of substratum primarily. In general, gastropods Batillaria multiformis (total number of individuals: 2683 ind., relative abundance 26.7%) and Cerithidea djadjariensis (1274 ind., 12.7%) were the most commonly occurring species on sandy and soft mud substrata. Rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (2646 ind., 26.3%) and gastropod Monodonta labio (1041 ind., 10.4%) were commonly occurring species inhabiting gravel and boulders substratum.

Biodiversity and abundance of soft shore communities

6.5.32 Table 3.9 of Appendix I shows the mean values of number of species, density, biodiversity index H’ and species evenness J of soft shore communities at every tidal level and in every sampling zone. Among the sampling zones, there was no clear difference in the mean number of species (5-14 spp. 0.25 m^-2). But the mean densities of TC3 (328-828 ind. m^-2) were highest followed by TC1 (280-390 ind. m^-2) and ST (84-396 ind. m^-2). TC2 was relatively lowest at mean densities (164-261 ind. m^-2). The mean H’ (1.57) and J (0.75) in ST were relatively higher than that in TC1, TC2 and TC3 (H’: 1.15-1.33; J: 0.60-0.69).

6.5.33 Across the tidal levels, there was no consistent difference of the mean number of species, H’ and J in all sampling zones. The mean densities were similar among the three tidal levels in TC1 (280-390 ind. m^-2) and TC2 (164-261 ind. m^-2). In TC3, the mean density at high tidal level (828 ind. m^-2) was much higher than mid and low tidal levels (328-472 ind. m^-2). In ST, the mean densities at high and mid tidal levels (300-396 ind. m^-2) were much higher than low tidal level (84 ind. m^-2).

6.5.34 Figures 3.9 to 3.12 of Appendix I show the temporal changes of mean number of species, mean density, H’ and J at every tidal level and in every sampling zone along the sampling months. No consistent temporal change of any biological parameters was observed. All the parameters were under slight and natural fluctuation with the seasonal variation. Focused on present survey (Dec. 2014), declines of mean density was observed in TC1, TC2 and ST. It was believed the cause of higher mortality during cold, dry season.

Impact of the HKLR project

6.5.35 The present survey was the ninth survey of the EM&A programme during the construction period. Based on the results, impacts of the HKLR project were not detected on intertidal soft shore community. In case, abnormal phenomenon (e.g. large reduction of fauna densities and species number) is observed, it would be reported as soon as possible.

6.6 Reference

6.6.1 Chan, K.K., Caley, K.J., 2003. Sandy Shores, Hong Kong Field Guides 4. The Department of Ecology & Biodiversity, The University of Hong Kong. pp 117.

6.6.2 Dai, A.Y., Yang, S.L., 1991. Crabs of the China Seas. China Ocean Press. Beijing.

6.6.3 Dong, Y.M., 1991. Fauna of ZheJiang Crustacea. Zhejiang Science and Technology Publishing House. ZheJiang.

6.6.4 EPD, 1997. Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Proc^ess (1st edition). Environmental Protection Department, HKSAR Government.

6.6.5 Fauchald, K., 1977. The polychaete worms. Definitions and keys to the orders, families and genera. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Science Series 28. Los Angeles, U.S.A.

6.6.6 Fong, C.W., 1998. Distribution of Hong Kong seagrasses. In: Porcupine! No. 18. The School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, in collaboration with Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden Fauna Conservation Department, p10-12.

6.6.7 Li, H.Y., 2008. The Conservation of Horseshoe Crabs in Hong Kong. MPhil Thesis, City University of Hong Kong, pp 277.

6.6.8 Longstaff, B.J., Dennison, W.C., 1999. Seagrass survival during pulsed turbidity events: the effects of light deprivation on the seagrasses Halodule pinifolia and Halophila ovalis. Aquatic Botany 65 (1-4), 105-121.

6.6.9 Longstaff, B.J., Loneragan, N.R., O’Donohue, M.J., Dennison, W.C., 1999. Effects of light deprivation on the survival and recovery of the seagrass Halophila ovalis (R. Br.) Hook. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 234 (1), 1-27.

6.6.10 Nakaoka, M., Aioi, K., 1999. Growth of seagrass Halophila ovalis at dugong trails compared to existing within-patch variation in a Thailand intertidal flat. Marine Ecology Progress Series 184, 97-103.

6.6.11 Pielou, E.C., 1966. Shannon’s formula as a measure of species diversity: its use and misuse. American Naturalist 100, 463-465.

6.6.12 Qi, Z.Y., 2004. Seashells of China. China Ocean Press. Beijing, China.

6.6.13 Qin, H., Chiu, H., Morton, B., 1998. Nursery beaches for Horseshoe Crabs in Hong Kong. In: Porcupine! No. 18. The School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, in collaboration with Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden Fauna Conservation Department, p 9-10.

6.6.14 Shannon, C.E., Weaver, W., 1963. The Mathematical Theory of Communication. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, USA.

6.6.15 Shin, P.K.S., Li, H.Y., Cheung, S.G., 2009. Horseshoe Crabs in Hong Kong: Current Population Status and Human Exploitation. Biology and Conservation of Horseshoe Crabs (part 2), 347-360.

6.6.16 Supanwanid, C., 1996. Recovery of the seagrass Halophila ovalis after grazing by dugong. In: Kuo, J., Philips, R.C., Walker, D.I., Kirkman, H. (eds), Seagrass biology: Proc Int workshop, Rottenest Island, Western Australia. Faculty of Science, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, 315-318.

6.6.17 Vermaat, J.E., Agawin, N.S.R., Duarte, C.M., Fortes, M.D., Marba. N., Uri, J.S., 1995. Meadow maintenance, growth and productivity of a mixed Philippine seagrass bed. Marine Ecology Progress Series 124, 215-225.

6.6.18 Yang, D.J, Sun, R.P., 1988. Polychaetous annelids commonly seen from the Chinese waters (Chinese version). China Agriculture Press, China.

7 ENVIRONMENTAL SITE INSPECTION AND AUDIT

7.1 Site Inspection

7.1.1 Site Inspections were carried out on a weekly basis to monitor the implementation of proper environmental pollution control and mitigation measures for the Project. During the reporting month, four site inspections were carried out on 3, 10, 17, 24 and 30 December 2014.

7.1.2 Particular observations during the site inspections and the follow up actions taken by the Contractor are described below.

3 December 2014

(a) Accumulated rubbish was found inside a skip at S19. The accumulated rubbish was removed from the skip at S19. This observation was found on 28 November 2014 and closed on 3 December 2014.

(b) Oil drum was found outside drip tray at N1. The oil drum was placed inside a drip tray at N1. This observation was found on 28 November 2014 and closed on 3 December 2014.

(c) Chemical container was found without drip tray at N1. The chemical container was removed at N1. This observation was found on 28 November 2014 and closed on 3 December 2014.

(d) Accumulated rubbish was found at the shore of S16. The accumulated rubbish was removed at the shore of S16. This observation was closed on 10 December 2014.

(e) Chemical containers were found without drip tray on vessel Sing Kee. The chemical containers were removed on vessel Sing Kee. This observation was closed on 10 December 2014.

(f) A stockpile of fill material was observed dry at N13. The stockpile of fill material was removed at N13. This observation was closed on 10 December 2014.

(g) Chemical containers were found without drip trays at N4. The chemical containers were removed at N4. This observation was closed on 10 December 2014.

(h) Stagnant water was found inside a drip tray at N4. The stagnant water was cleaned up at N4. This observation was closed on 10 December 2014.

(i) Accumulated rubbish was found at S25. The accumulated rubbish was removed at S25. This observation was closed on 10 December 2014.

(j) Accumulated rubbish was found at S7. The accumulated rubbish was cleaned up at S7. This observation was closed on 10 December 2014.

10 December 2014

(a) Stockpiles of fill material were observed dry at N13. The stockpiles of fill material were sprayed with water regularly at N13. This observation was closed on 17 December 2014.

(b) Some oil stains were observed on the unpaved road at N13. The oil stains were cleaned up at N13. This observation was closed on 17 December 2014.

(c) Rubbish and wastewater were found in the U channel at N13. The rubbish and wastewater in the U channel was cleared at N13. This observation was closed on 17 December 2014.

(d) Accumulated rubbish was found at S11. The accumulated rubbish was removed at S11. This observation was closed on 17 December 2014.

(e) Accumulated rubbish was found at S25. The accumulated rubbish was removed at S25. This observation was closed on 17 December 2014.

(f) Oil drums were observed without a drip tray at S25. The oil drums were removed at S25. This observation was closed on 17 December 2014.

17 December 2014

(a) Different kind of waste was accumulated at N1. Waste was removed at N1. This observation was closed on 24 December 2014.

(b) Stagnant water was found inside a drip tray at N1. Stagnant water was cleaned up at N1. This observation was closed on 24 December 2014.

(c) A rubbish bin was broken at N13. Broken rubbish bin at N13 was replaced. This observation was closed on 24 December 2014.

(d) Some oil stains were observed inside an I-beam at S11. Oil stains inside the I-beam was removed at S11. This observation was closed on 24 December 2014.

(e) One oil drum was not put inside a drip tray at S11. Drip tray was provided for the oil drum at S11. This observation was closed on 24 December 2014.

(f) No water spraying was observed during the percussive work at S15. Water was sprayed during percussive work at S16. This observation was closed on 24 December 2014.

24 December 2014

(a) Slurry was observed on barge edge of vessel Shun Tat 82. Slurry on barge edge of vessel Shun Tat 82 was cleared. This observation was closed on 24 December 2014.

(b) Excess fill materials were observed on barge edge of vessel Kiu Tak. Excess fill materials were cleared at barge edge of vessel Kiu Tak. This observation was closed on 31 December 2014.

(c) Muddy water was found on the public road at S8. Muddy water was cleared on the public road at S8. This observation was closed on 31 December 2014.

(d) Stagnant water was found inside a drip tray at S19. Stagnant water was cleared inside the drip tray at S19. This observation was closed on 31 December 2014.

(e) Stagnant water was observed on the ground at S19. Stagnant water was cleared on the ground at S19. This observation was closed on 31 December 2014.

(f) Oil stains was observed on the ground and no drip tray was provided for air compressor at N4. Oil stains was cleared on the ground and drip tray was provided for air compressor at N4. This observation was closed on 31 December 2014.

(g) Accumulation of waste was observed at N1. The accumulated of waste was cleared at N1. This observation was closed on 31 December 2014.

30 December 2014

(a) Curved silt curtain was found at Portion X. The Contractor was reminded to straighten the curved silt curtain at Portion X.

(b) Oil stain was found on the vessel Shun Tat 82 at Portion X. The Contractor was reminded to clean up the oil stain on the vessel Shun Tat 82 at Portion X.

(c) Stagnant water might accumulate inside the recesses of the concrete blocks at N1. The Contractor was reminded to fill up the recesses of the concrete blocks at N1.

(d) Oil leakage was found under the excavator at N4. The Contractor was reminded to repair the excavator to prevent oil leakage at N4.

(e) Construction equipment was found near retained tree at N4. The Contractor was reminded to remove the construction equipment near the retained tree at N4.

(f) Stagnant water was found inside wheel washing bay at N4. The Contractor was reminded to remove stagnant water inside wheel washing bay at N4.

The Contractor has rectified most of the observations as identified during environmental site inspections during the reporting month. Follow-up actions for outstanding observations will be inspected during the next site inspections.

7.2 Advice on the Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status

7.2.1 The Contractor registered as a chemical waste producer for the Project. Sufficient numbers of receptacles were available for general refuse collection and sorting.

7.2.2 Monthly summary of waste flow table is detailed in Appendix J.

7.2.3 The Contractor was reminded that chemical waste containers should be properly treated and stored temporarily in designated chemical waste storage area on site in accordance with the Code of Practise on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastes.

7.3 Environmental Licenses and Permits

7.3.1 The valid environmental licenses and permits during the reporting month are summarized in Appendix L.

7.4 Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures

7.4.1 In response to the site audit findings, the Contractors carried out corrective actions.

7.4.2 A summary of the Implementation Schedule of Environmental Mitigation Measures (EMIS) is presented in Appendix M. Most of the necessary mitigation measures were implemented properly.

7.4.3 Regular marine travel route for marine vessels were implemented properly in accordance to the submitted plan and relevant records were kept properly.

7.4.4 Dolphin Watching Plan was implemented during the reporting month. No dolphins inside the silt curtain were observed. The relevant records were kept properly.

7.5 Summary of Exceedances of the Environmental Quality Performance Limit

7.5.1 No Action and Limit Level exceedances of 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP levels were recorded at AMS5 during the reporting month. No Action and Limit Level exceedances of 1-hour TSP were recorded at AMS6 during the reporting month. An Action Level exceedance of 24-hr TSP level at AMS6 was recorded on 16 December 2014 during the reporting month.

7.5.2 For construction noise, no Action and Limit Level exceedances were recorded at the monitoring station during the reporting month.

7.5.3 For marine water quality monitoring, one Limit Level exceedance of suspended solid level was recorded on 5 December 2014. No Action Level exceedance of suspended solid level was recorded during the reporting month. No Action and Limit Level exceedances of turbidity level and dissolved oxygen level were recorded during the reporting month.

7.6 Summary of Complaints, Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecution

7.6.1 There were two complaints received during the reporting month. The summary of environmental complaints is presented in Table 7.1. The details of cumulative statistics of Environmental Complaints are provided in Appendix K.

Table 7.1 A Summary of Environmental Complaints for the Reporting Month

Environmental Complaint No.	Date of Complaint Received	Description of Environmental Complaints
COM-2014-063	3 December 2014	Noise
COM-2014-065	24 December 2014	Water Quality

1-hr TSP Monitoring	1, 5, 11, 17, 23 and 29 December 2014
24-hr TSP Monitoring at AMS5	2, 5, 17, 22, 24 and 30 December 2014
24-hr TSP Monitoring at AMS6	4, 10, 16, 22, 24 and 30 December 2014
Noise Monitoring	1, 11, 17, 23 and 29 December 2014
Water Quality Monitoring	1, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29 and 31 December 2014
Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring	2, 9, 15 and 23 December 2014
Mudflat Monitoring (Ecology)	6, 7, 10, 21, 22 and 23 December 2014
Mudflat Monitoring (Sedimentation rate)	13 December 2014
Site Inspection	3, 10, 17, 24 and 30 December 2014

Environmental Monitoring	Parameters	Action Level (AL)	Limit Level (LL)
Air Quality	1-hr TSP	0	0
Air Quality	24-hr TSP	1	0
Noise	L_{eq (30 min)}	0	0
Water Quality	Suspended solids level (SS)	0	1
	Turbidity level	0	0
	Dissolved oxygen level (DO)	0	0

Site Area	Description of Activities
Portion X	Dismantling/Trimming of Temporary 40mm Stone Platform for Construction of Seawall
Portion X	Filling Works behind Stone Platform
Portion X	Construction of Seawall
Portion X	Loading and Unloading of Filling Material
Portion X	Temporary Stone Platform Construction
Portion X	Temporary Diversion of Existing Box Culvert
Portion X	Sheet Piling
Portion X	Excavation and Lateral Support Works at Scenic Hill Tunnel (Cut & Cover Tunnel)
Portion X	Excavation works for minded HKBCF to Airport tunnel
Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road	Works for Diversion of Airport Road and Kwo Lo Wan Road
Airport Express Line	Pre-grouting and Pipe Piling Works for Airport Express Line Access Shafts
Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road / Airport Express Line/East Coast Road	Utilities Detection
Airport Road / Airport Express Line/East Coast Road	Establishment of Site Access
Kwo Lo Wan Road	Excavation and Lateral Support Works at shaft 3 extension north shaft & south shaft
Airport Road	Excavation works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel West (Cut & Cover Tunnel)
Airport Road	Pipe Piling Cofferdam Works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel West (Cut & Cover Tunnel)
Portion Y	Access Shaft Construction for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel
Portion Y	Utility Culvert Excavation
West Portal	Excavation for Scenic Hill Tunnel
West Portal	Abutment Construction

One Limit Level exceedance of suspended solid level was recorded on 5 December 2014.

1.1.4 The Contract includes the following key aspects:

1.1.5 This is the twenty-seventh Monthly EM&A report for the Contract which summaries the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 to 31 December 2014.

1.2.1 The project organization structure and lines of communication with respect to the on-site environmental management structure is shown in Appendix A. The key personnel contact names and numbers are summarized in Table 1.1.

1.3 Construction Programme

1.3.1 A copy of the Contractor’s construction programme is provided in Appendix B.

1.4 Construction Works Undertaken During the Reporting Month

1.4.1 A summary of the construction activities undertaken during this reporting month is shown in Table 1.2.

2 Air Quality Monitoring

2.1 Monitoring Requirements

2.3.1 Monitoring locations AMS5 and AMS6 were set up at the proposed locations in accordance with Contract Specific EM&A Manual.

2.3.2 Figure 2.1 shows the locations of monitoring stations. Table 2.4 describes the details of the monitoring stations.

2.4.1 Table 2.5 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of impact TSP monitoring.

2.5.1 24-hour TSP Monitoring

2.5.2 1-hour TSP Monitoring

2.6.1 The schedule for air quality monitoring December 2014 is provided in Appendix D.

2.7 Monitoring Results

2.7.1 The monitoring results for 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP are summarized in Tables 2.6 and 2.7 respectively. Detailed impact air quality monitoring results and relevant graphical plots are presented in Appendix E.

2.7.2 No Action and Limit Level exceedances of 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP levels were recorded at AMS5 during the reporting month.

2.7.3 No Action and Limit Level exceedances of 1-hour TSP were recorded at AMS6 during the reporting month. An Action Level exceedance of 24-hr TSP level at AMS6 was recorded on 16 December 2014 during the reporting month.

2.7.4 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

2.7.5 The wind data obtained from the on-site weather station during the reporting month is shown in Appendix G.

3.1.1 In accordance with the Contract Specific EM&A Manual, impact noise monitoring was conducted for at least once per week during the construction phase of the Project. The Action and Limit level of the noise monitoring is provided in Table 3.1.

3.2 Monitoring Equipment

3.3 Monitoring Locations

3.3.1 Monitoring location NMS5 was set up at the proposed locations in accordance with Contract Specific EM&A Manual.

3.3.2 Figure 2.1 shows the locations of monitoring stations. Table 3.3 describes the details of the monitoring stations.

3.4.1 Table 3.4 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of impact noise monitoring.

3.5.1 Monitoring Procedure

3.5.2 Maintenance and Calibration

3.6.1 The schedule for construction noise monitoring in December 2014 is provided in Appendix D.

3.7 Monitoring Results

3.7.1 The monitoring results for construction noise are summarized in Table 3.5 and the monitoring results and relevant graphical plots are provided in Appendix E.

*A correction factor of +3dB(A) from free field to facade measurement was included.

3.7.2 There were no Action and Limit Level exceedances for noise during daytime on normal weekdays of the reporting month.

3.7.3 Major noise sources during the noise monitoring included construction activities of the Contract and nearby traffic noise.

3.7.4 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

4 Water Quality Monitoring

4.1.2 The original and revised Action Level and Limit Level for turbidity and suspended solid are shown in Table 4.1.

4.2.1 Table 4.2 summarises the equipment used in the impact water quality monitoring programme.

4.3.1 Table 4.3 summarises the monitoring parameters, frequency and monitoring depths of impact water quality monitoring as required in the Contract Specific EM&A Manual.

4.4.2 The locations of these monitoring stations are summarized in Table 4.4 and shown in Figure 2.1.

4.5 Monitoring Methodology

4.5.1 Instrumentation

4.5.2 Operating/Analytical Procedures

4.5.3 Maintenance and Calibrations

(a) All in situ monitoring instruments would be calibrated by ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. before use and at 3-monthly intervals throughout all stages of the water quality monitoring programme. The procedures of performance check of sonde and testing results are provided in Appendix C.

4.6.1 The schedule for impact water quality monitoring in December 2014 is provided in Appendix D.

4.7 Monitoring Results

4.7.1 Impact water quality monitoring was conducted at all designated monitoring stations during the reporting month. Impact water quality monitoring results and relevant graphical plots are provided in Appendix E.

4.7.2 Number of exceedances recorded during the reporting month at each impact station are summarised in Table 4.6.

4.7.4 Water quality impact sources during the water quality monitoring were the construction activities of the Contract, nearby construction activities by other parties and nearby operating vessels by other parties.

4.7.5 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

5.1 Monitoring Requirements

5.1.1 Impact dolphin monitoring is required to be conducted by a qualified dolphin specialist team to evaluate whether there have been any effects on the dolphins.

5.1.2 The Action Level and Limit Level for dolphin monitoring are shown in Table 5.1.

5.1.3 The revised Event and Action Plan for dolphin Monitoring was approved by EPD in 6 May 2013. The revised Event and Action Plan is annexed in Appendix F.

Vessel-based Line-transect Survey

5.2.1 According to the requirements of the Updated EM&A Manual for HKLR (Version 1.0), dolphin monitoring programme should cover all transect lines in NEL and NWL survey areas (see Figure 1 of Appendix H) twice per month. The co-ordinates of all transect lines are shown in Table 5.2.

5.2.5 Data including time, position and vessel speed were also automatically and continuously logged by handheld GPS throughout the entire survey for subsequent review.

Photo-identification Work

5.2.12 Chinese White Dolphins can be identified by their natural markings, such as nicks, cuts, scars and deformities on their dorsal fin and body, and their unique spotting patterns were also used as secondary identifying features (Jefferson 2000).

Vessel-based Line-transect Survey

5.3.1 During the month of December 2014, two sets of systematic line-transect vessel surveys were conducted on 2nd, 9th, 15th and 23rd to cover all transect lines in NWL and NEL survey areas twice. The survey routes of each survey day are presented in Figures 2 to 5 of Appendix H.

5.3.4 Distribution of these dolphin sightings made in December 2014 is shown in (Figure 6 of Appendix H). All three sightings were clustered within and adjacent to the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park, while no dolphin was sighted for the rest of North Lantau waters (Figure 6 of Appendix H).

5.3.5 Notably, none of the six sightings was made in the proximity of the HKLR03 and HKBCF reclamation sites, as well as the HKLR09 and TMCLKL alignments (Figure 6 of Appendix H).

5.3.6 During December’s surveys, encounter rates of Chinese White Dolphins deduced from the survey effort and on-effort sighting data made under favourable conditions (Beaufort 3 or below) are shown in Table 5.3 and Table 5.4.

5.3.7 The average group size of Chinese White Dolphins in December 2014 was 1.67 individuals per group, which was much lower than the ones in previous months of dolphin monitoring. All three dolphin groups were composed of only 1-3 animals during the monitoring period.

Photo-identification Work

5.3.8 Five individual dolphins were sighted five times during December’s surveys. All of them were sighted only once during the monitoring month (Annex III and IV of Appendix H).

5.3.9 None of the five individual dolphins was accompanied with calves during their re-sightings.

Conclusion

5.3.10 During this month of dolphin monitoring, no adverse impact from the activities of this construction project on Chinese White Dolphins was noticeable from general observations.

5.4 Reference

5.4.1 Buckland, S. T., Anderson, D. R., Burnham, K. P., Laake, J. L., Borchers, D. L., and Thomas, L. 2001. Introduction to distance sampling: estimating abundance of biological populations. Oxford University Press, London.

5.4.2 Hung, S. K. 2012. Monitoring of Marine Mammals in Hong Kong waters: final report (2011-12). An unpublished report submitted to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, 171 pp.

5.4.3 Hung, S. K. 2013. Monitoring of Marine Mammals in Hong Kong waters: final report (2012-13). An unpublished report submitted to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, 168 pp.

5.4.4 Jefferson, T. A. 2000. Population biology of the Indo-Pacific hump-backed dolphin in Hong Kong waters. Wildlife Monographs 144:1-65.

Methodology

Monitoring Locations

4.4.2 The locations of these monitoring stations are summarized in Table 4.4 and shown in
Figure 2.1.

5.3.1 During the month of December 2014, two sets of systematic line-transect vessel surveys were conducted on 2^nd, 9^th, 15^th and 23^rd to cover all transect lines in NWL and NEL survey areas twice. The survey routes of each survey day are presented in Figures 2 to 5 of Appendix H.